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Introduction
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Market Position
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Segment:
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Full-size Luxury Sedan
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Positioning Statement:
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The Buick Park Avenue 2004 aimed to provide a comfortable, refined, and spacious alternative to other luxury sedans, emphasizing a smooth ride and a quiet cabin.
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Competitive Analysis
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Key Competitors 2004:
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Lincoln Town Car, Cadillac DTS, Chrysler 300M, Mercury Grand Marquis
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Key Features
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Distinguishing Features:
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Comfort-oriented ride, spacious interior, quiet cabin, extensive feature availability, V8 engine options, front-wheel drive.
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Interior Appointments:
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Leather seating, dual-zone climate control, heated seats, power-adjustable steering column, memory seats.
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Manual Coverage
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Systems Covered
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Mechanical Systems:
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Engine, Transmission (Automatic), Drivetrain, Suspension, Steering, Brakes, Fuel System, Cooling System, Exhaust System, Climate Control
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Electrical Systems:
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Engine Control Module (ECM), Body Control Module (BCM), Powertrain Control Module (PCM), Infotainment System, Lighting, Instrumentation, Power Accessories (Windows, Locks, Seats), Charging System, Starting System, Antilock Braking System (ABS), Traction Control System (TCS), Supplemental Inflatable Restraint System (SIRS - Airbags)
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Safety Systems:
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Airbag system (SIRS) diagnosis, ABS and Traction Control System (TCS) component testing and replacement.
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Procedures Included
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Maintenance Procedures:
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Oil Change, Filter Replacement, Fluid Checks and Changes (Coolant, Brake Fluid, Power Steering Fluid, Transmission Fluid), Spark Plug Replacement, Air Filter Replacement, Tire Rotation and Balancing, Battery Maintenance
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Repair Procedures:
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Engine Overhaul and Rebuild, Transmission Repair and Overhaul, Brake System Repair (Pads, Rotors, Calipers), Suspension Component Replacement (Struts, Shocks, Control Arms), Steering System Repair (Rack and Pinion), Exhaust System Repair, Fuel Pump and Injector Service, Electrical Component Diagnosis and Replacement, HVAC System Repair, Body Panel Repair and Replacement
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Diagnostic Procedures:
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On-Board Diagnostics (OBD-II) Scan and Code Interpretation, Symptom-Based Troubleshooting Guides, Component Testing Procedures, Wiring Diagrams and Schematics
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Body And Frame:
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Body panel alignment, door/hood/trunk repair, exterior trim, interior trim removal and installation, structural repair basics.
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HVAC System:
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Climate control system diagnosis and repair, refrigerant handling, blower motor, A/C compressor, heater core replacement.
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Engine Performance Tuning:
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Includes specifications for engine performance tuning and diagnostics, but not aftermarket tuning modifications.
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Technical Depth
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Depth:
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Comprehensive: Covers basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed diagnostic procedures and specifications.
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Wiring Diagrams:
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Comprehensive electrical wiring diagrams for all major systems.
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Engine Specifications
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Primary Engine
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Engine Option 1:
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3.8L (3800 Series III) Supercharged V6
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Engine Code 1:
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L32
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Displacement 1:
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3.8 Liters (231 cu in)
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Horsepower 1:
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240 hp @ 4400 rpm
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Torque 1:
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280 lb-ft @ 3600 rpm
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Fuel System 1:
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Sequential Fuel Injection (SFI) with Supercharger
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Engine Design 1:
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Overhead Valve (OHV), V-configuration, Cast Iron Block, Aluminum Heads
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Engine Technology:
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Supercharged V6 with sequential port fuel injection.
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Optional Engine
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Engine Option 2:
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3.8L (3800 Series III) Naturally Aspirated V6
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Engine Code 2:
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L36
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Displacement 2:
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3.8 Liters (231 cu in)
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Horsepower 2:
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205 hp @ 5200 rpm
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Torque 2:
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230 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm
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Fuel System 2:
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Sequential Fuel Injection (SFI)
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Engine Design 2:
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Overhead Valve (OHV), V-configuration, Cast Iron Block, Aluminum Heads
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Maintenance
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Service Intervals
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Oil Change Interval:
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Every 3,000-5,000 miles or 3-6 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type used (refer to manual for specific recommendations).
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Transmission Fluid Change:
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Recommended every 60,000-100,000 miles or as per manual, depending on usage. Fluid type: Dexron VI (or equivalent).
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Fluid Specifications
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Engine Oil Specification:
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SAE 3.8L Supercharged: 3.8L (3800 Series III SC) V6 requires SAE 5W-30. SAE 3.8L Naturally Aspirated: 3.8L (3800 Series III) V6 requires SAE 5W-30. Always consult manual for exact specification.
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Coolant Specification:
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GM P/N 12346290 (Dex-Cool) or equivalent orange ethylene glycol coolant.
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Brake Fluid Specification:
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DOT 3
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Power Steering Fluid:
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GM P/N 89021181 or equivalent Dexron III/VI.
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Transmission Fluid Capacity:
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Approximately 8.5 quarts (8.0 liters) for a dry fill. Refer to manual for exact capacity and fill procedure.
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Known Issues
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Common Wear Items:
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Front wheel bearings, exhaust system components (catalytic converter, mufflers), suspension bushings, and brake components due to vehicle weight and usage.
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Engine Specific Issues:
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3800 Series III Supercharged engines: Potential for lower intake manifold gasket leaks (though less common than earlier versions), supercharger coupler failure. Naturally Aspirated: Generally robust, but carbon buildup can occur.
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Transmission Issues:
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4T65-E: Torque converter shudder, occasional solenoid issues.
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Electrical Issues:
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Window regulators, power seat motors, and certain sensor failures are not uncommon in vehicles of this age.
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Suspension Component Wear:
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Strut mounts and ball joints can wear prematurely due to the vehicle's weight and soft suspension tuning.
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Vehicle History
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Brand Heritage
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Buick Legacy:
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Buick has a long-standing reputation for producing comfortable, quiet, and well-appointed vehicles, often positioned as a near-luxury brand within General Motors.
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Model Evolution
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Park Avenue Heritage:
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The Park Avenue nameplate has a history dating back to the late 1960s, evolving through several generations, culminating in this third-generation model which emphasized luxury, comfort, and modern technology.
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Production
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Production Years:
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1997-2005 (for the third generation)
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Manufacturing Location:
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Detroit, Michigan, USA (Hamtramck Assembly Plant)
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